The Importance of a Family Budget

An operational budget is a plan on how family income
should be spent to provide for family needs without incurring debts or
deficits. It is the parent's primary task to prepare a family budget. However,
every member must also know how the family income is budgeted. Through budgeting, family members learn to spend money
wisely, thus, saving money which could be used for other family needs.
Resources such as time, energy, and utilities are also used well when income is
budgeted.

In budgeting one must consider the size of the family,
its income, the needs of the family and the locality where the family lives.
For a budget to be workable, income should be adequate enough to meet the
prioritized needs of the family.

1.
Food —
In the situation where there is a baby in the family or there are members with special conditions who need a special diet, there's
also a need for additional money to be spent for food.

2. Shelter — Does
the family own the place where they live or is it only leased? This is
important to know because expenses for house repair must be part of the monthly
budget. If the family owns the property, then payment for the real estate tax
and fire insurance should be set aside yearly.

3. Clothing — Every family member has
different clothing needs. His/Her activities and family status in the family must be considered.

4.
Education — Tuition fees and school needs such as books and other
supplies constitute expenses that must be provided for, especially the daily
school allowances.

5.
Household Operations — If the family has helpers, provisions for
their salaries should be a part of the monthly budget.

6.
Utilities such as water, electric and telephone services which
are paid monthly.

7.
Medical and Dental Care — Expenses for healthcare of the family
must be provided. Medicines properly prescribed must be always available at
home for ready use when needed.

8.
Rest and Recreation — The family needs rest and recreation after
work and study.

9.
Savings — The money saved can be used in emergency situations. It
can grow also in the form of investment.

Pointers to keep in mind when making
family budget.

1.
Know your income - a clear idea of just how much can be provided for
family needs.

2.
Determine which expenses are fixed and which are flexible by making a
list of monthly needs.